University Guide
University of Sheffield
The University of Sheffield is a Russell Group university in South Yorkshire, established in 1905. Its roots include Sheffield Medical School, founded in 1828, alongside the city’s early technical and scientific education institutions. Today, it offers undergraduate and postgraduate study across a wide range of subjects, combining a strong research community with student life in a city known for its music, independent venues and access to the countryside.
Jump to a section
The overview
The main things you need to know about studying at the University of Sheffield.
Rankings
Sheffield ranks 82nd globally and 14th in the UK in the QS World University Rankings 2027. It also places 104th worldwide in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2027 and 13th nationally in the Complete University Guide 2027.
Employability
Sheffield’s Careers and Employability service helps students explore career options, find placements and work experience, and prepare applications and interviews. Career Connect provides access to vacancies, appointments and employer events. After graduating, you can continue using many of the university’s careers services for as long as you need support, including workshops and individual guidance.
Fees
The standard home undergraduate tuition fee is £9,790 for new entrants in 2026/27 and £10,050 for 2027/28 entrants. Some foundation years have a lower fee, while placement and study-abroad years have separate rates. International and postgraduate fees vary by course. Check the university’s fees and funding guidance for your programme, fee status and entry year, alongside any additional course costs.
Bursaries
For 2027 entry, the University of Sheffield Bursary offers eligible home students £250–£1,000 annually based on household income, with postcode-based awards bringing the maximum to £1,250. Assessment normally uses Student Finance and UCAS information, without a separate bursary application. Eligible care leavers, estranged students and student carers can apply for enhanced support of up to £10,000 annually instead. International scholarships have separate criteria; check the scheme for your entry year.
Accommodation
University accommodation is available at Ranmoor and Endcliffe and in city locations, with shared-bathroom rooms, en-suites and studios. For 2026/27, published rents include shared-bathroom rooms at Crescent Flats from £151.41 per week and standard Ranmoor and Endcliffe en-suites at £195.72, both on 42-week contracts. Rent includes utilities, internet access and contents insurance. Longer contracts are also available, particularly for postgraduates. Check availability and the accommodation guarantee conditions for your entry year, or explore private student accommodation in Sheffield through AFS.
Need a place to stay in Sheffield?
We have lots of available student accommodation in Sheffield.
Students' Union
Sheffield Students’ Union offers hundreds of societies, sports opportunities, volunteering and social events. It ranked first among Russell Group students’ unions in the National Student Survey 2026. Alongside activities and student representation, its independent Student Advice Centre provides confidential advice on housing, money and academic issues, including support when problems arise during your studies.
Famous for
Sheffield’s alumni community includes Olympic heptathlon champion Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill, Jack Reacher author Lee Child and astronaut Helen Sharman, the first Briton in space. Their backgrounds span psychology, law and chemistry, reflecting the range of subjects and career paths associated with the university.
News
In October 2026, Sheffield announced the return of Festival of the Mind, running from 6–15 November. The free city-centre festival pairs university researchers with local artists to create exhibitions, performances and interactive experiences, sharing research on subjects ranging from history and robotics to sustainable energy and space.
Accommodation for Students says
“Sheffield is an amazing city which never gets dull. It’s surrounded by the beautiful Yorkshire countryside and the Peak District national park, but is still a bustling metropolitan city meaning that you certainly get the best of both worlds. It’s full of culture, it has some beautiful buildings, and it has a pretty sick nightlife. As the years go on you may end up spending more time in the library, but at least you’ll have one of the best cities in The North surrounding you".
Still looking for accommodation?
We have lots of great student properties available near the University of Sheffield.
See all available properties